Ichikowitz Family Foundation’s Post

In thousands of polling stations from the bustling metropolises to the serene rural villages, queues will be formed early, reflecting the determination of every South African to shape the future of their beloved country. The diversity of the electorate is always evident, showcasing the rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and aspirations that define South Africa's democracy. With each vote cast, citizens reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of equality, justice, and inclusivity. From seasoned voters to first-time participants, there was a shared sense of responsibility and optimism, a collective belief that together, they could steer the nation towards a brighter tomorrow. Beyond the ballot papers, election day served as a celebration of unity, as people from all walks of life came together to embrace their shared identity as South Africans. As South Africa stands at a critical juncture in its history, the call for change echoes loudly across the nation. With the challenges of corruption, economic stagnation, and social inequality weighing heavily on the populace, there is an urgent need for new leaders with a global perspective and a commitment to positive transformation. The current government's shortcomings have become increasingly apparent, and the people of South Africa are yearning for fresh faces and bold ideas to lead them into a brighter future. In response to this clamour for change, a new generation of leaders has emerged, poised to chart a new course for the nation. These leaders bring with them a world outlook, informed by best practices from around the globe and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of modern society. They recognise that South Africa's challenges cannot be addressed in isolation but require a holistic approach that leverages the nation's strengths and embraces innovation and collaboration on a global scale. Central to their vision is a commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance. They understand that rebuilding trust in public institutions is essential to restoring faith in the democratic process and empowering citizens to actively participate in shaping their future. #SouthAfricaVotes #SouthAfricaPresidentialElections

🌍 Reflecting on International Day of Democracy – September 15th 🗳️ 🗓 Yesterday, the world paused to celebrate International Day of Democracy, but the fight for resilient and inclusive #governance in #Africa continues every day. Democracy is more than a date on the calendar—it’s the beating heart of progress, justice, and equality. For Africa, it’s the key to unlocking a future where the voices of all citizens are heard and respected. As we navigate complex political landscapes and #socioeconomic challenges, the call to action is clear: we must continue to strengthen democratic resilience. Whether it's empowering youth, ensuring transparency in leadership, or promoting free and fair elections, we are all part of this movement. Though the day has passed, our mission endures. Africa's democratic future depends on bold, visionary leadership that values people over power and builds systems that work for everyone. Together, let’s drive the change that will transform governance across the continent. The time is now. Democracy is not just a hope for the future—it’s the work we do today. #AfricaRising #InternationalDemocracyDay #DemocracyInAction #GoodGovernance #ResilientLeadership #CivicEngagement #AfricaForward

🌍 Poll Question: Which issue do you believe is most pressing on the continent right now? A) Economic inequality B) Access to healthcare C) Corruption D) Education reform Share your insights with us! Your perspective helps us understand the priorities of the continent. Leave your answer in the comments below! 📊✨ Explore more about Africa's diverse issues and heritage at The African Think Tank and follow us @theafricanthinktank for insightful updates. #AfricanThinkTank #PollInsights #Afrobarometer #AfricaIssues #EngageWithU

At PACKS Africa, we commemorate the United Nations, a beacon of global cooperation and a champion of evidence-informed solutions. For Africa, the #UN has been pivotal in addressing key challenges like poverty, health inequities, and limited access to quality education. The #UN has empowered African nations to shape data-driven policies for a more prosperous future by fostering dialogue, advancing research, and supporting sustainable development. As we reflect on this journey, let us reaffirm our commitment to the UN’s ideals and the power of #evidence in decision-making. By embracing research and informed strategies, we can unlock Africa's potential and create a future where peace, justice, and sustainable growth thrive. #UnitedNationsDay #EIDM #EvidenceForAfrica

What emerges from the African Youth Survey 2024 is that the youth are at a crossroads—optimistic and energized about their future; they want to improve their quality of life, their environment, build robust businesses, and build a stronger continent for the future. ...yet they are hindered & increasingly frustrated by barriers that stop them, calling for more responsive governance, greater economic opportunities, action on climate change, and stronger protections against misinformation. Our survey reveals that 64% of youth are not opposed to non-peaceful protests to effect political change & to break down barriers. It’s clear that if their governments can't sort out these issues, 31% of youth are prepared to leave Africa permanently. 'A Turning Point for Africa' is the title of the African Youth Survey 2024. You can read the full report by visiting our website here: https://lnkd.in/dWupedxS --- Conceptualized and funded by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation. Conducted by PSB Insights, a global leader in public opinion research, to-date there is no comparable barometer of the opinions of African youth in size or scope - The African Youth Survey is widely recognized as one of the most important research studies on young people living, learning, and working across Africa. #AfricanYouthSurvey24 #Governance #Africa #AfricanYouth

#HappyAfricanYouthDay to the vibrant, resilient youth of our continent! I’m speaking to all young Africans who feel the weight of decisions made for them, but too rarely with them. We’re often told that policies are being built for the future — yet, the voices shaping these policies are from leaders near retirement, planning a vision we’ll inherit long after they’re gone. We, the youth, deserve a place at the decision-making tables now, not as distant beneficiaries but as active architects of the future. Agenda 2063 is not just a blueprint, it’s our reality in the making. We are the present and future of Africa. We should be steering the vision that will impact our lives, our communities, and our children. It’s time for our involvement, for our energy to breathe life into policies and make them relevant from the grassroots up. I hope we witness more doors flung open for young African voices — not merely in words, but through true opportunity and responsibility. I hope to see an Africa where we no longer lose lives to the desperation of migration or the devastation of conflict. Let our leaders invest genuinely in US and in PEACE, to give this continent’s youth a reason to stay, to hope, and to build. To all young Africans, let’s keep pushing. The time is now; let’s take our rightful place.

#EmpoweringTheNextGeneration Yesterday marks 17 years of celebrating #InternationalDemocracyDay. Inline with international democracy day Citizen Voice and Actions (CVA-Rwanda) organized a virtual youth conference which emphasized on "Youth Engagement in Shaping Democratic Practices and Values in Africa". It was highlighted that youth engagement in shaping democratic practices and values have been facing challenges particularly on Africa continent. Issues such as unemployment rates, limited access to quality education and inadequate political representation have been hindering their ability to participate meaningful in democratic processes. #Thepanelist emphasized that democratic processes is essential not just as a right but as a necessity for #Africa's future. Collective actions among governments, civil society organizations and international partners are crucial to ensure meaningful and inclusive youth engagement in shaping democratic practices and values in Africa. There is a need of safe &inclusive and friendly spaces for youth, public resolutions, access to skills development, media, peace building networks and alliances to amplify youth's voices. Ultimately in her closing remark Elisenda Balleste Buxo from Global Democracy Coalition reminded us(participants) that we heard many times that youth are the future, but we are not the future, we are the present. #HappyInternationalDemocracyDay #YouthEngagement #AfricaYouth #DemocracyInAction

To unlock Africa’s full potential, we must bring youth to the center of decision-making. In her recent article, Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, Ph.D, our Resident Rep. highlights how engaging young people in governance isn't just beneficial—it's essential for building resilient, future-focused communities. With Africa's population growing younger each year, inclusive policies shaped by youth perspectives can drive transformative change. Read more here https://bit.ly/4hKT9X8

Agenda 2063 is a strategic framework for Africa's socio-economic transformation, adopted by the African Union in 2015. It outlines a vision for Africa to become a global powerhouse by 2063, driven by inclusive and sustainable development. Agenda 2063 aims to address Africa's challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of economic diversification. By achieving the goals, Africa can become a powerhouse by driving global economic growth etc. Roadmap to building the Africa we want Thanks AIIDEV Africa for these eye opening insights. #africawewant #SDGssustainability #aiidevafrica

It is estimated that by 2030 over 40% of the total youth population will be African. This remarkable demographic shift underscores the important role that young Africans have in shaping solutions for the continent's unique challenges. From the multiple conflicts in the continent, to climate change and economic development issues, the future is in our hands!🌍 ✨ As we count down to the #2024IRSKConference in Nairobi, on November 20-22 we seek to understand how we can better engage with young Africans. The conference will offer a platform for young people to amplify their voices and engage in meaningful discussions about Africa's future. 👉 Join us at the #2024IRSKConference and be part of the movement! Registration is ongoing ➡ https://t.co/z2RYrqBHo5 #YouthLeadership #AfricanSolutions #YouthEngagement #2024IRSKConference #FutureLeaders #SustainableDevelopment